Ammonium Nitrate Seized in Faridabad: Understanding the Threat

• In a major counter-terror operation, the Haryana Police have seized over 2,900 kilograms of ammonium nitrate and other explosive-making materials from two houses in Faridabad . The recovery included an assault rifle , multiple explosive timers , and a large cache of ammunition. The seizure has triggered national security alerts as ammonium nitrate , though commonly used as a fertiliser, can be turned into a powerful explosive under certain conditions.

What is Ammonium Nitrate?

• Ammonium nitrate ( NH₄NO₃ ) is a white crystalline compound made by combining ammonia and nitric acid. It is primarily used in fertilisers due to its high nitrogen content but also acts as an oxidising agent in industrial explosives. While stable under normal conditions, it becomes highly reactive when mixed with fuel or exposed to intense heat and shock. When combined with fuel oil, it forms ANFO (Ammonium Nitrate Fuel Oil) —a common blasting agent in mining and construction.

Why It Is Dangerous

• Improper storage or deliberate misuse of ammonium nitrate can lead to massive explosions , as seen in the 2020 Beirut port disaster , which involved around 2,750 tonnes of the compound. The 2.9 tonnes recovered in Faridabad had enough destructive potential to devastate several city blocks if detonated improperly.

Legal Framework and Regulation

• The use, storage, and sale of ammonium nitrate in India are governed by the Explosives Act, 1884 , and the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012 . Any material containing over 45% ammonium nitrate is classified as an explosive . Manufacturers, dealers, and transporters must obtain government licences, and storage facilities must meet strict safety and monitoring standards.

Exam Pointers

• Chemical formula: NH₄NO₃

• Regulated under: Explosives Act (1884) & Ammonium Nitrate Rules (2012)

• Common use: Fertiliser and industrial explosives (ANFO)

• Beirut 2020 explosion: 2,750 tonnes of ammonium nitrate

• Recent seizure: 2,900 kg in Faridabad